Coupling Device Integrating Latching Contours on Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for fluid lines in internal combustion engine systems are costly to produce and assemble, with a need for improved designs that reduce component count and assembly complexity while ensuring secure, non-detachable connections.
Innovation Solution
The coupling device integrates inner latching contours on the sleeve, eliminating the need for separate securing elements, and features a non-detachable design with offset locking segments and a predetermined breaking point for controlled disassembly, using a minimal number of components and enhancing manufacturing simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate securing element is used to realize inner latching contours, then reliable latching is achieved, but production costs and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the securing element function directly into the sleeve by integrally forming the inner latching contours on the sleeve itself. This eliminates the need for separate securing elements while maintaining reliable latching through the complementary outer latching contours on the connecting pieces that engage with the integrated inner contours during insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The sleeve is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support, guides the connecting pieces during insertion, and directly provides the latching function through its integrated inner latching contours. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated securing elements and simplifies the overall device structure.
2Reliability
If multiple securing elements are used to ensure secure connection, then connection reliability improves, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latching function into the sleeve structure itself through integrally formed inner latching contours, eliminating the need for multiple separate securing elements. This reduction in component count directly lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining connection security through the engagement of these contours with the outer latching contours of the connecting pieces.
3Reliability
If a non-detachable connection is designed, then manipulation risks are reduced, but disassembly capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a predetermined breaking point that segments the sleeve structure into a replaceable portion and the main body. This allows the connection to be effectively non-detachable during normal operation (preventing manipulation) while enabling controlled disassembly by breaking at the predetermined point and replacing only the sleeve, not the entire assembly.
4Device complexity
If integral forming of latching contours is implemented, then component count is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the latching contours directly into the sleeve and connecting pieces as integral features rather than separate components. This merging reduces the total component count while the precision requirements are managed through the design of the injection molding process and the complementary nature of the latching contours that engage during insertion.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a coupling device (1) for connecting a first fluid line (5) to a second fluid line (6), having a first connecting piece (2) which has an external latching contour (7) on the outer side thereof and which is or can be connected to the first fluid line (5), having a second connecting piece (3) which has an external latching contour (8) on the outer side thereof and which is or can be connected to the second fluid line (6), and having a sleeve (4) into which the two connecting pieces (2, 3) can be inserted at opposite ends and which has, on the inner side thereof, internal latching contours (10, 11) which are complementary to the external latching contours (7, 8) and which latch with the external latching contours (7, 8) when the connecting pieces (2, 3) are inserted. Cheap production is possible if the internal latching contours (10, 11) are formed integrally on the sleeve (4).